ICYMI: Massive Drug Bust—Over 47 Pounds of Cocaine Disguised as Hair Conditioner Seized!
A routine package inspection exposed a brazen smuggling plot—cocaine worth over $361,000 stuffed inside hair conditioner jars! 🌐 #News #MiamiFL #Florida #Crime
MIAMI, FL – Authorities intercepted a massive international drug smuggling attempt passing through Florida waters when U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers seized more than 47 pounds of cocaine concealed inside jars of hair conditioner. The illicit cargo, valued at over $361,000, was discovered during routine inspections at a FedEx facility, exposing a sophisticated smuggling attempt.
Routine Check Uncovers Suspicious Cargo
The drug bust happened on January 28 at the Rafael Hernandez Airport in Aguadilla, Puerto Rico. CBP officers were scanning packages at the FedEx cargo facility when they flagged a shipment containing 59 jars of hair conditioner.
Something didn’t seem right.
A closer inspection using X-ray technology revealed unusual inconsistencies inside the containers.
Upon opening the jars, authorities found that 51 of them contained vacuum-sealed pouches filled with a white powdery substance. Subsequent testing confirmed the substance was cocaine, weighing a total of 47.4 pounds.
Shipment Traced Back to the Caribbean
Investigators determined the package originated in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, an island nation in the eastern Caribbean.
Its final destination was Thailand, but CBP officials disrupted the smuggling attempt before it could reach its target.
CBP Officials Applaud Officers’ Efforts
Carlos Nieves, Port Director for the Mayaguez-Aguadilla Port of Entry, commended his officers for their expertise in uncovering the operation.
“Our CBP Officers continue their vigilance at the Express Consignment Cargo Facilities and effectively employ their experience combined with available technology to detect and deter smuggling activities exploiting the supply chain,” Nieves said.
Authorities did not reveal if any arrests were made in connection to the shipment, but the investigation is ongoing.
RELATED TOPICS: Crime | Florida | Puerto Rico | Thailand
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